Fair warning: on that second link you have to type in the name EXACTLY as written on the certificate. Even if you give my first and last name, nationality, and birth date, I won't show up. You have to type in my full middle name, since that's how it is on the certificate.

Even then it only works if they spelled your name right. I tried to find my name on their list and typed in every variation I could think of and got nothing back. So I dug my card out and discovered that they had spelled my middle name wrong. I was able to find it after that.

OK, so a 6th Dan may have to travel to someone else's school they didn't train under and take an exam for seventh dan? And Kukkiwon accepts one master's opinion on such high rankings? That surprises me, I've always thought at that level it should involve a team of people judging the exam.

OK, so a 6th Dan may have to travel to someone else's school they didn't train under and take an exam for seventh dan? And Kukkiwon accepts one master's opinion on such high rankings? That surprises me, I've always thought at that level it should involve a team of people judging the exam.

Look, I'm not a fan of TKD. I've been in the middle of a lot of bullshit when it comes to stuff in TKD. You are being an asshole with your line of questionings. I suggest you go curl up in the corner and suck your thumb and contemplate the accusations you're insinuating. Then when you become enlightened you'll realize you'll only need some vaseline to remove your head from your ass.

Btw, for KKW dans after... 4th? I believe that you have to be tested by a panel of Masters in Korea. This might have changed. But it's my understanding it does require a board of examiners, not just some random dude going 'yeah him passes'.

Btw, for KKW dans after... 4th? I believe that you have to be tested by a panel of Masters in Korea. This might have changed. But it's my understanding it does require a board of examiners, not just some random dude going 'yeah him passes'.

Thanks guys, most you were helpful. I know people can train under others when their teachers pass away, I was asking about those who don't, how they continue to move up. The idea that it is political is interesting. I read somewhere that after 4th dan, promotion has more to do with teaching and spreading the art than it does with physical advancement. I'm happy to hear that one of you thinks it takes a panel of judges in Korea to promote at those levels. I guess we don't have anyone here who knows for sure. Apparently, at lower dan ranks, one master can certify another, and some have pretty lax standards.